North West Norfolk MP James Wild met with Baby Basics West Norfolk to learn about the essential work they do to support vulnerable mums by providing a safe bed, clothes, toiletries, nappies and other essentials for their new-born babies.
The West Norfolk group meets once a week together where they prepare the Moses baskets which provide a safe bed for the babies to sleep in. These new Moses Baskets are then are packed full of essentials such as nappies, wipes, toiletries, nappies, blankets, baby towels, and baby clothes from new-born to three months. For some mothers, these are the only items they may have for their baby.
Baby Basics works with midwives, health visitors, Social Workers, The Refuge, Early Years, AskLily, The Borough Council, the Purfleet, and many other professionals to provide starter packs to help vulnerable groups including, but not limited to, those facing poverty, homelessness, families in crisis, teenage mums and women fleeing domestic violence.
James met Centre Leader Maggie Anderson and Jan Cardigan, one of the team of 7 volunteers, and the Rev.Dave Cossey at St Nicholas Church, Dersingham where the group is based, to discuss the growing demand for the service. Since 2019 there has been an increase from 57 referrals received and completed to 216 in 2021. So far this year 186 referrals have been completed.
Commenting after the visit James said:
“Baby Basics West Norfolk does so much to help vulnerable mums give their babies the start in life that every child should enjoy. The care and thought that the volunteers put into preparing the baskets reflects their deep commitment to support these families. As a voluntary group that relies on the generosity of people and companies to prepare these beautiful baskets, I encourage anyone who can to help them support those most in need.”
Commenting Maggie Anderson said:
“Whilst it is a privilege to be able to provide these Moses basket bundles to those who need it most, it's a sad reflection on the need locally.
It takes courage for these mums to accept the help offered, so when health professionals refer to us we know they will get signposted on for further support. Our ethos is to try to give these mums dignity, to feel worthy, because they are, but to have to ask for the help is hard.”
